brief by Anna Leach, audio recorded by Lauren Langdon

World War II veteran Melvin Fast and his wife Sue Fast came to visit STA on Thursday October 9. He discussed his life during the role, his role as a volunteer soldier and the effects of those times on his life today in the Windmoor Center during both activity periods. Melvin’s grandson, STA english teacher Kelly Fast, invited him to tell stories of the war to students of all ages.

According to Fast, discussions such as these are important because not many World War II veterans are still alive today and knowing your history is incredibly valuable.

Melvin was 18 when he volunteered to serve his country. He survived 19 combat missions and 25 missions total, though he never saw his crew finish.

The war took its toll, the 88 year old said. To this day he still suffers nightmares related to his experiences in the war.

“I’m still in the war,” Melvin said.

However, according to Melvin, his time in service was worth the negative effects suffered today.

“It was the best thing I had ever done,” Melvin said.

Junior Shelby Hawkins who attended the seminar found the experience bittersweet.

In addition, to the saddening details of the war, Hawkins said the talk was not all depressing.

“[Melvin] said some sweet things about his wife,” Hawkins said, mentioning a story Sue, Melvin’s wife of 69 years, told the attendees about writing letters to her husband every day.

Overall, Hawkins said the experience was worth going to, sobering parts included.

“It was all very interesting,” Hawkins said. “He did an amazing job [speaking].”